After Pakistan, Malaysian Army Engages in Joint Exercise with Indian Army

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – From November 4 to 15, Defence Security Asia reported that a contingent of Malaysian Army personnel participated in a joint military exercise with the Pakistan Army, known as Exercise Harimau Markor Series 2/2024.

The exercise involved five officers and 13 other ranks (OR) from Malaysia’s 5th Battalion Royal Ranger Regiment (5 RRD) and five officers along with 28 OR from Pakistan’s 4 Light Commando Battalion.

It was conducted at Pakistan’s National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).

“Exercise Harimau Markor Series 2/2024 focused on counter-terrorism operations in a jungle environment, while also facilitating the exchange of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), as well as insights into Pakistan’s diverse terrain,” according to a recent Malaysian Army social media post.

The exercise was described as a positive initiative that strengthened bilateral ties through the mutual exchange of ideas, knowledge, and expertise between the two armed forces.

Just weeks after the Malaysian Army concluded its exercise in Pakistan, the Indian Army arrived in Malaysia to conduct a bilateral military exercise.

Brief:

The Malaysian Army recently conducted two significant joint military exercises to strengthen international defense collaborations. From November 4 to 15, Malaysian troops participated in Exercise Harimau Markor Series 2/2024 in Pakistan alongside the Pakistan Army. Held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the exercise emphasized counter-terrorism operations in jungle environments and facilitated the exchange of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).

Shortly after, the Malaysian Army hosted the Exercise Harimau Shakti Series 6/2024 with the Indian Army from December 2 to 15 at Bentong Camp, Pahang. This exercise, organized by Malaysia’s 11th Brigade, involved tactical and operational training in complex scenarios and further enhanced military ties between Malaysia and India.

Both exercises underscored the importance of regional collaboration in addressing evolving security challenges while fostering stronger diplomatic and defense relationships.

Named Exercise Harimau Shakti Series 6/2024, it marks the sixth iteration of the bilateral collaboration between the Malaysian and Indian Armies.

The exercise, organized by Malaysia’s 11th Brigade, comprises three phases: the Cross Training Exercise (CTX) and the Field Training Exercise (FTX), according to an official Malaysian Army social media statement.

Commencing on December 2 and running until December 15, 2024, Exercise Harimau Shakti involves 22 officers and 154 OR from Malaysia’s 25th Battalion Royal Malay Regiment (25 RAMD), supported by other units.

The Indian Army contributes seven officers and 71 OR from the 11 Mahar Regiment.

The opening ceremony for Exercise Harimau Shakti Series 6/2024 was officiated by Brigadier General Shahir Hafizul Abd Rahman, Commander of Malaysia’s 11th Infantry Brigade, at the 25 RAMD Parade Ground, Bentong Camp, Pahang, on December 2, 2024.

“This exercise focuses on tactics, procedures, and military operations in complex scenarios. It not only enhances interaction between the two armies but also provides an opportunity for both nations to share expertise in various aspects of military operations while strengthening diplomatic and defense ties,” the statement said.

Through initiatives such as Harimau Shakti, both nations aim to enhance their capabilities to address the increasingly complex regional security challenges. – DSA